A person needs an entire arsenal at their disposal for support in managing dementia effectively.

The goal of dementia management isn't to cure. It's to improve function, slow decline, and find strategies, supports, training to maximize quality of life.

Check out a variety of resources to see which may be a good fit for you or provide you and/or your family with the support and information you need.

Websites to learn about dementia

Alzheimer’s Association – Should be the first stop resource for dementia. The website includes facts of about dementia, the different types (and yes, the type of dementia you have does make a big different in regards to treatment) risk factors, treatments, They have a portal for caregivers, as well as one for research trials and help figuring out a plan. Information can be power.

Understanding Dementia – The University of Tasmania in Australia offers a FREE course every summer about understanding dementia and best practices, using research and knowledge from around the world. Fantastically informative and helpful. You can also follow their Facebook page for frequent tips and information.

Facebook groups for dementia support

Facebook has a variety of Support Groups for specific disorders like Frontotemporal Dementia, Primary Progressive Aphasia, Alzheimer's, and more. They have groups for people with the diagnosis as well as groups for caregivers. Look around a bit, join a few groups and see which one feels like a good fit / support environment for you. It's a great way to connect and feel less isolated.

Books for dementia caregivers

So many books are available on dementia, as well as specific for different types, frontotemporal dementia, Alzheimer's, Vascular, dementia with Lewy bodies and more. These book recommendations are a few of my favorites, and offer wonderful techniques for managing the amnesic forms of dementia, not just Alzheimer's, with focus on respect for the person and focus on quality of life.

“The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss” by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins

“Learning to Speak Alzheimer's: A Groundbreaking Approach for Everyone Dealing with the Disease” by Joanne Koenig Coste

“Creating Moments of Joy for the Person with Alzheimer's or Dementia: A Journal for Caregivers” by Jolene Brackey

What favorite resources do you find helpful? Leave a comment or message me so we can share it with others. Too overwhelmed by resources? Contact me for a consult and we'll work together to develop a plan to help.

Beth Dolar, a certified Speech-Language Pathologist is based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. A mother of two, she enjoys exploring creativity, the outdoors, and travel. Beth focuses on intensive in-home speech therapy including stroke recovery and voice therapy. Online therapy available in some areas.

Medical Disclaimer: Content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical advice. If you are seeking individualized advice and/or speech therapy, please contact a speech-language pathologist in your area. See Terms and Conditions.